The CTeen Impact Care Awards launched again in January!
A large group of enthusiastic teenagers signed up for this year’s CTeen Impact Care Awards at the launch on 11th January.
Jamie Sacks introduced the launch with inspiring words recalling his own participation some years ago: “Community work helps teenagers develop important life skills. Through volunteering, we learn teamwork, leadership, communication, and responsibility – skills that aren’t always taught in classrooms but are essential in real life. When I took part a few years ago, I really developed my confidence. Community work teaches us responsibility as future leaders. We’re not just teenagers – we’re the future of our communities. By getting involved now, we learn the value of service and understand that change begins with us.”
Presentations were made by Simon Phillips from Leeds Jewish Housing Association (LJHA), Claudie Ineson from Leeds Jewish Welfare Board (LJWB), Becky and Shelley Joyce and Sammi Shapero from Homeless Street Angels, and Janine Graham from Jewish Scouting. Becky and Shelley talked about the incredible growth of the Homeless Street Angels activities, Simon discussed LJHA projects and entertained everyone with an interactive quiz, Claudie explained the broad role of LJWB and how it was started 148 years ago, and Janine gave an energetic description of Scouts and Guides, encouraging the teens to give back where they had benefited.
“It’s most inspiring to see our youngsters prepared to give of their time to help those less fortunate,” commented organiser Rabbi Reuven Cohen. “We are pleased to see several who participated last year coming back again. It’s so important to encourage our teenagers to engage in community work. Certainly, the elderly and needy get much pleasure from interacting with youngsters but likewise, it’s very fulfilling and enjoyable for the teens.”
The project runs from January until April, culminating in a celebration dinner. Any teenagers who still wish to enrol can do so by contacting Reuven on 07814 856 360.
